Acquisition and revitalization of a historic building

International Museum of Brotherhoods and Freemasonry - Center for Art and Culture

Castillonnès, 47, France

The centerpiece of our project is the acquisition of an iconic building in the heart of the Castillonnès bastide. Our goal is to transform it into a vibrant space dedicated to art, culture, history, and regional traditions—including Freemasonry and brotherhoods. Discover all the details of this heritage adventure below.

A historic building

This historic building has a very long history that begins with the founding of the town.

The bastide of Castillonnès was established in the medieval period in a region that had previously seen a Gaulish presence, followed by Gallo-Roman occupation.

The medieval cellar most likely dates back to this period. It is equipped with an underground well from the same era.

The building that will house this center for art and culture was once part of the keep of the immense medieval castle.

It later became a large residence belonging to the Marquis de Saint-Quentin de Gironde. Then, in the 19th century, it served as a religious school before being transformed, a century later, into a carpenter’s warehouse.

In 1805, a Masonic lodge was established in the town and remained active for several decades. It is highly likely that meetings were held in this part of the town.

Our project: a center for art, culture, and a museum.

“Reviving history and traditions while creating a space for contemporary exchanges”

By acquiring this building, we aim to transform this monument into a center for art and culture open to all. Part of the space will be dedicated to a museum, presented in a dynamic and interactive way, where regional traditions, brotherhoods, and the history of Freemasonry will come together.

The museum's design will focus on the following aspects:

Precious and significant objects from the city's historical heritage
Immersive visit experience
Permanent and temporary exhibitions
Specialized and research library
Underground historical reconstruction of the Roman era (Mithraeum) and an 18th-century room (Lodge)

Beyond the museum experience, this space will host:

Temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and local artisans' works
Conferences, symposiums, and gatherings on historical and cultural themes
Writing and art retreats and workshops
Educational workshops for schools and the general public
Festive and gastronomic events, highlighting brotherhoods and the local heritage of the bastide
A boutique and a community café

Development phases

First Phase: Acquisition of the building.
Second Phase: Restoration of the structure while respecting its historical periods (Volunteers may be supervised to participate in certain aspects of the work).
Third Phase: Development of the cultural and museum project, integrating modern technologies and historical reconstructions.
Fourth Phase: Commissioning and public opening.